Turkey sits at the meeting point of Europe and Asia, where ancient civilisations, layered history, and dramatic landscapes come together. You will find vibrant cities, coastal retreats, mountain villages, and archaeological wonders in one journey.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From the bustling streets and grand mosques of Istanbul to the surreal rock formations of Cappadocia and the turquoise bays of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, Turkey offers a wide mix of culture, nature, and heritage. Expect hospitable locals and a strong sense of tradition alongside modern city life.
Plan your trip
You can use Istanbul as a gateway to explore the rest of Turkey, with onward flights, buses, and domestic links to major regions and coastal towns. Combine historic neighbourhoods, countryside escapes, and seaside stays for a varied itinerary across the country.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Stroll between grand landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, and wander the surrounding streets filled with small shops and old houses.
Sail the Turquoise Coast
Join a coastal cruise on the Aegean or Mediterranean, stopping at sheltered bays, small islands, and seaside villages with clear blue water.
Discover Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes
Walk among rock-cut churches and valleys shaped by wind and time, and see the famous fairy chimneys from viewpoints across the region.
Step back in time at ancient Ephesus
Visit one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, with a grand library facade, theatre, and streets lined with marble remains.
Bathe in Pamukkale’s white terraces
See the striking travertine pools and warm mineral waters cascading down the hillside, with the ruins of Hierapolis just above.
Relax in a traditional hammam
Experience a classic bathhouse with steam, heated stone platforms, and scrub treatments that are part cleansing ritual, part relaxation.
Wander the bazaars and backstreets
Lose yourself in colourful markets and narrow lanes, where you can browse textiles, ceramics, spices, and everyday local shops.
Visit the Gallipoli and Troy region
Combine moving World War I memorials at Gallipoli with the archaeological site associated with ancient Troy on a coastal detour.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
Domestic flights from Istanbul link quickly to major cities and coastal gateways, while intercity buses and trains connect regional hubs across Turkey. Within towns and cities, you can use trams, metro lines, taxis, and ride-hailing services for flexible local travel.
Local life & culture
In Turkey, daily life often revolves around neighbourhood squares, tea houses, and street-side cafes where people pause to talk. You will notice strong regional identities, from Black Sea villages to Aegean towns, yet a shared culture that values hospitality and time with family and friends.
Where to unwind
You can relax along long sandy beaches on the southern and western coasts, or seek quiet in highland plateaus, lakes, and national parks. In the cities, tranquil courtyards, waterfront promenades, and traditional hammams offer calm corners away from busy streets.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
Across Turkey, you will find grilled meats, savoury pastries, meze spreads, and slow-cooked stews, with each region adding its own touch. Istanbul brings together flavours from all over the country, while the southeast is known for rich grills and the Aegean coast for olive oil-based dishes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Turkish cities, casual eateries, street stalls, and contemporary bistros sit side by side, serving everything from quick snacks to creative plates. Waterfront promenades, busy shopping streets, and university districts are often lined with relaxed places to eat at almost any hour.
Signature & scenic dining
You can enjoy memorable meals in Turkey on rooftop terraces overlooking city skylines, in restored mansions along the Bosphorus, or at hillside restaurants above coastal bays. Many venues pair regional recipes with wide views of the sea, valleys, or historic landmarks.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul and other major cities, large shopping centres bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining spots. These air-conditioned malls often double as social hubs, with wide opening hours and family-friendly facilities.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional bazaars and weekly markets across Turkey showcase textiles, copperware, carpets, and ceramics. Istanbul, Izmir, and central Anatolian towns are especially known for artisan work, where you can look for handmade pieces and regional designs.
Evening retail scene
After dark, lively shopping streets and pedestrian zones in big cities stay open late, with illuminated storefronts and side streets full of small boutiques. In coastal resorts, night-time promenades combine souvenir shops, jewellery stores, and relaxed cafes.
Best time to visit Turkey
Spring (April to June) is a shoulder season, with many regions enjoying mild weather around 15–22°C (59–72°F) and blooming landscapes, ideal for sightseeing before the main crowds. Summer (July to September) is the peak season, especially along the coasts, with hot, dry days around 25–32°C (77–90°F), warm seas, and a busy holiday atmosphere. Autumn and winter (October to March) are generally a low season, bringing cooler temperatures around 5–15°C (41–59°F) in many areas, quieter attractions, and the possibility of snow inland and in higher regions.